Advice from Dear Webby
Go back to school as a Senior

Dear Webby,

Every spring I watch the Graduating classes on television. They always show a senior citizen getting a degree. I only need a few credits and often wonder if I should go back to school, then I think but why? Am I silly to even consider it?

Dear Quit too soon,

It is never too late to do anything! Well, anything reasonable.

I hate it when people say, "If I can do it, anyone can." Baloney! We all can't bungee jump, become President or even belly dance. However, it is never too late to learn.

Actually we are learning something new all the time. Be it from television, the newspapers, books, friends or whatever we are constantly learning (even some things we'd rather not know).

Many years ago I told someone that I regretted not furthering myself in a particular career; one I thought I'd love but was "too old" to do at that point. They told me "in 5 years you will be 5 years older whether you pursue the career or not".

It seemed overwhelming and too late to start. Now 20 years later I can't recall what I did with those 5 years and often wish I had been more ambitious.

Do you want the degree for the sake of having one? Do you want to pursue a career based on it? Do you enjoy studying? Have you thought about taking a course or two and seeing if your still are interested? Would it be fun or torture? (Do you think you'll look good in a cap and gown?)

If you just want to better your understanding of a subject there are many less demanding courses of study in schools and learning centers. Many have discounts for seniors. Perhaps you'd like to check some catalogs from nearby colleges (we have so many in Cleveland!) and see what's available.

Going for a degree is demanding and takes much discipline; especially when the other seniors are out playing golf and you have to do your homework.

God made all of us different, and what interests your friends may not be your bag. Don't do it just because you feel you should. If you do go back, do it because it's what you want to do.

Look into it. Who knows? We may be calling you "President" some day or just for a game of golf.

Whatever you decide, if you do what you love it's O.K. with Webby.

Good luck,